kite's sizes question.

[zheton]

Hello everyone! I have a question and i can't answer it myself)))
So i was just trying to cut my gear a little bit.
So far i have 16m havoc, 13 nomad, 12 crossbow and 9 omega.
I really like all of my kites but would like to exchange it to just two good ones)
16m havoc is pretty awesome and i would like to keep it)
So would like to get rid of 13,12, and 9...
I was just thinking.. Would i be fine if i keep 16m and get 11m??
16m havoc book says that it shoud be good to up to 20 knots.
almost any of 11m kites manual says that it would work in the wind up to 30 knots...
I don't think that i would like to go over than that))
I know that 13-14m are the most useful sizes here in MN.
I'm not very experienced rider.. That was my first season; however, i missed only two windy days)
So i really don't know what to do) Any suggestions??
Almost forgot) my weight is 210 and i don't think that i will ever wight less than that)..

[Tighe]

you should be fine with the 16/11 quiver, assuming you have a smaller board and are fairly experienced. There will be a few days where the 11 will be too large but they will be few. Always better to be equip yourself for the lighter winds, since we have more of them. Also the 11-13m size is a favorite for many.

[RobH]

I agree with the 16/11 combo if your trying to get to two kites. I Also have last years 13 Nomad and typically fly it when I would normally fly a 11 or 12m since it has little low end power and very stable at the upper limits. For sure you dont need both the 12 crossbow and 13 Nomad, they are very different kites but cover the same range. Really depends on your riding style and what you like if your going to keep the CB or Nomad. The Nomad shines when its powered to overpowered or gusty conditions, not so much when its not. The CB is all around great performer. The 2011 Nomads are much improved from the 2010's in low end performance and general flying characteristics, they are still better suited for someone who enjoys moving the kite around instead of the park and ride. If it were my decision I would move the Omega for sure and keep either the CB or Nomad, look for a 10m switchblade 3 on ebay as they are a great kite for the money and that 3 kite quiver would keep you covered at your wieght most of the time. Good luck on your decision and if you have any questions on cab gear hit me up.

[MK]

The Kiteboarder Magazine does an annual article about learning this sport. I read it last on the way home from SPI in November. I know you are all glad to hear I can read

One of the items I gained good verbiage from is the point that national sales on inflatable kites show 175lb person on a 12M kite.

Kite size is a little tricky since it caters to location, skill level and riding style. Since you are new it's best to under size. I'm a 205-210lb rider. My favorite kite is a 14M. I've been content with a core quiver of 14/9M to get me through most of my sessions. You may run into some strong opinion for kite size and consider it all good advice (especially mine ). It's not always an easy answer considering the variables.

Glad to read you have had a lot of riding time. It has been a splendid snowkiters paradise this season.

[Reds]

Buy and own several kites. Never be without a weapon for the conditions. Commit.